Suppositories are solid, waxy medications not intended for oral use. They are meant to be inserted into body orifices including the anus.

Suppositories usually melt at room temperature; therefore, they need to be properly refrigerated.

Hemorrhoid suppositories are very effective for treating both external and internal hemorrhoids especially prolapsed hemorrhoids. They are generally more effective than hemorrhoid creams and ointments.

However, hemorrhoid suppositories should be avoided by people suffering from bleeding hemorrhoids or those whose anorectal region is already infected.

A suppository has a streamlined shape with a pointy, round end and a flat end.

It is usually inserted with the rounded end first so that it can be pushed in with the flat end. The smooth muscles of the rectum quickly grip the inserted suppository and push it in further.

Once inserted, the cold, solid suppository picks heat from the body and then slowly melts to release the active ingredients inside it.

Active ingredients included in hemorrhoid suppositories can be natural herbs such as witch hazel or synthetic agents like phenylephrine HCl. Some formulations may combine both types of remedies.

To ensure that hemorrhoid suppositories stay solid before use and melt slowly, the active ingredients are formulated in a base which is the substance also serving as a vehicle for the active ingredients. Cocoa butter is a popular choice for the base in hemorrhoid suppositories.

Other inert excipients may be added to help with the release of the active ingredients in the anal canal.

Some of these added substances help lubricate the anal canal to allow the suppository to pass in with the least difficulty and also to soothe the smooth muscles of the anorectal region.